Hockey eves ease past Canada 5-2

Manheim (USA), July 23

Vandana Katariya and Deepika struck two goals each as the Indian women’s hockey team thrashed Canada 5-2 to record its second victory in the tour of USA.

After Vandana (9th, 51st min) and Deepika (38th, 49th min), Poonam Rani (58th min) added the fifth goal. India won a penalty corner early in the first quarter but failed to convert it. Soon, they had the lead via Vandana’s field goal. Off a second penalty corner, Poonam’s deflected shot was saved by the defender to prevent India from doubling their lead. 

Canada came out quicker in the second-quarter and scored the equaliser via a Stephanie Norlander penalty conversion in the 17th minute. India stoically defended several of Canada’s penalty corners and ensured they went into the half-time level at one goal each.

The two teams came out all guns blazing in the second-half with Canada dominating in the midfield. However, a quick press by India led Deepika to score their second goal. Canada equalised via a Brienne Stairs goal in the 42nd minute. With little time left in the third-quarter, a host of chances fell to both sides with their respective goalkeepers put to test. In the final-quarter, India came out with renewed zest and were soon in the lead via Deepika’s second goal. Two minutes later, Vandana doubled her tally with a field goal and extended India’s lead 4-2. Poonam scored the fifth goal to seal India’s second consecutive victory on the tour. 

Colts beat Scotland 2-1

The India’s junior men’s hockey team started its tour of England with a 2-1 victory over Scotland in the opening game at the Bisham Abbey Sports Centre. India took the lead via Nilkantha’s penalty corner conversion. India doubled their lead via a quick counter in the final minute of the second-half scored by Simranjeet. Scotland’s William Marshall scored one goal late in the game. — PTI